The comparison between this and the “same period 2008” is difficult, of course, because their figures for that period appear no more accurate. 188 casualties for 2008 seems itself remarkably low, when one considers that the casualties of a single air strike in that period in the Herat Province was well over 100 (including 90 deaths and a number of injuries). And this doesn’t include large numbers killed in ground attacks and night raids, of course.

Though he has yet to dramatically overhaul the Rules of Engagement, Gen. David Petraeus is said to have relaxed rules regarding endangering of civilians since taking control. The daily news suggests this is taking a considerable toll on civilians, though of course NATO’s skewed data makes it difficult to discern exactly how much.